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Sailfest XXXVI launches

The Mashantucket Pequot Fireworks Extravaganza explodes over the Thames River during Sailfest XXXVI Saturday, July 13, 2013, in New London.

Connecticut Sons of the American Revolution Color Guard Lt. Commander Todd Gerlander, right, and John Stark, left, fire off their muskets during a demonstration during Sailfest in New London Saturday, July 13, 2013.

A little rain doesn't stop Mestiza Boyd, 3, of New London as she plays with a ball she just won during Sailfest at Waterfront Park in New London Saturday, July 13, 2013.

Rebecca Golnans, left, Sarah Stevenson, center, and Chris Rebbetts, try to protect themselves from the rain as they make their way down Bank Street during a soggy Sailfest in downtown New London Saturday afternoon, July 13, 2013.

Sienna Montanari, 6, of New London, hugs a spotted leopard stuffed animal after winning it in a carnival game as she is joined by her brother Stephen, 5, and mother Tracy, left, on the opening night of Sailfest in downtown New London Friday, July 12, 2013.

Family and spectators watch as New London Mega Stars dance team from Centro de la Comunidad perform on the Parade Plaza during Sailfest in downtown New London Saturday afternoon, July 13, 2013.

Cole McCahill, 20, of Waterford, break dances on the Custom House Pier during Sailfest in New London Saturday, July 13, 2013.

Pamela Kydd holds her sleeping grandson Carter Pettiford-Jones under a tarp on State Street as people take cover from the rain duirng a soggy Sailfest in downtown New London Saturday afternoon, July 13, 2013.

An overcast morning turned to rain by 1 p.m. Saturday, July 13, 2013, and while some people took shelter under tents or pavilions, they didn't let it ruin their day out. Barbara Neff, the festival's executive director, has been spreading the word through Facebook and Twitter: "Fireworks are on."